– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Oil for frying (coconut or vegetable oil)
– Sweet chili sauce, for dipping
Follow these simple steps to prepare crispy coconut shrimp at home:
1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures a good coating.
2. Set Up Breading Stations: Gather three shallow dishes. In the first, place flour mixed with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
– Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
– Dip it in the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off.
– Finally, roll it in the coconut-panko mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom—about ½ inch deep. Heat the oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
5. Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried shrimp from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Keep Them Warm: If needed, keep the shrimp warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you fry the remaining batches.
8. Serve: Arrange the crispy coconut shrimp on a serving platter with a bowl of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Your crispy, tropical shrimp are now ready to devour!